Opinion Former Articles

ow much journalism is churnalism - the uncritical regurgitation of press releases? To what extent can we trust what we read in the press about medical and other scientific discoveries and breakthroughs? How impartial is mainstream media coverage of key political and economic issues? And just how much of tabloid news is just, well, made up?

Malawian villagers have found an unlikely platform to expose injustice and abuse of power and bring their leaders to task, according to research funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). Malawi’s public radio station broadcasts are providing an alternative programme of news stories. The programme features contributions by ordinary Malawians, highlighting their everyday experiences of abuse and violation.

Against the looming backdrop of proposed press regulation, the hacking trial of Rebekah Brooks and Andy Coulson continues. Labour make a video - but Richard Littlejohn is unimpressed. And Karl Marx makes a comeback.

After weeks of preparation this week's Budget looks like being a success - even if its contents are largely inconsequential. After a 2am deal, this week's press regulation deal looks like being a disaster - and really matters for the printed press, bloggers and, of course, Politics.co.uk.